One who is injured ought not to return the injury, for on no account can it be right to do an injustice; and it is not right to return an injury, or to do evil to any man, however much we have suffered from him.
Socrates__
The above quote highlights a fundamental principle of ethics and morality, that is, the idea of not returning injury for injury. It speaks to the idea that regardless of how much someone has wronged us, it is never right to repay that wrong with another wrong. In other words, it is never justifiable to do evil to someone else, no matter what they have done to us.
The importance of this principle cannot be overstated. It lays the foundation for the development of a just and equitable society, where individuals are able to coexist without constantly being in conflict with one another. In a society where people are free to return injury for injury, it would be a constant state of chaos, with everyone looking out for themselves and trying to exact revenge for any perceived wrong. This kind of society would be unlivable, as there would be no peace or stability, and everyone would be living in fear of being wronged by someone else.
Moreover, the principle of not returning injury for injury is crucial for promoting forgiveness and compassion. Forgiveness and compassion are vital for the well-being of individuals and for the health of relationships. When we are able to forgive and show compassion, even in the face of great hurt or injury, we demonstrate that we are able to rise above our negative emotions and seek to bring peace and reconciliation to the situation. This allows us to move forward in a positive direction, and helps to break the cycle of violence and retaliation that can so easily take hold in our lives.
Another reason why the principle of not returning injury for injury is so important is that it helps us to understand the inherent worth and dignity of every human being. By recognizing that it is never right to do evil to another person, we are acknowledging that every person has a right to be treated justly and fairly. This idea is at the core of many philosophical and religious traditions, and it is something that should be cherished and upheld by all people.
In conclusion, the quote, “One who is injured ought not to return the injury, for on no account can it be right to do an injustice; and it is not right to return an injury, or to do evil to any man, however much we have suffered from him,” is a powerful reminder of the importance of not returning injury for injury. By upholding this principle, we can create a more just and peaceful society, promote forgiveness and compassion, and recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every human being.